Follow an old shepherd’s trail through deodar forest to a chain of glacial lakes in the Pir Panjal, then return to Manali for local culture and optional adventure sports. This six-day exploratory trek is route-finding, high-altitude camping with strong village connections.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the jeep where the road thins and the forest takes over: deodar trunks ring the trail, mist drifting like a slow current through the trees. The shepherds' track is narrow, often indistinct, and it threads upward toward a cluster of small, glacier-fed lakes that appear and disappear behind ridges and silver birch.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6 days (approx.)
Fitness Level
Suitable for hikers with good aerobic fitness and prior multi-day trek experience; must handle uneven terrain and sustained ascents.
Wildlife
History
The shepherds’ track predates modern roads and was used for seasonal grazing and trade between valley communities; local villages maintain distinct Pahari cultural traditions.
Conservation
Travelers should avoid disturbing fragile alpine flora and pack out all waste; use established campsites and follow guide instructions to minimize erosion and human impact.
Reserve your spot on the Trek To The Mountain Of The Broken Lake today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before you start
Spend a day in Manali or lower-altitude villages to reduce altitude sickness risk before ascending to 3,000–4,000 m.
Trust the guide on route-finding
The trail is largely unmarked; follow the guide’s routing across meadows and scree, especially in misty conditions.
Bring a water treatment option
Stream water is abundant but untreated; use purification tablets or a filter to avoid gastrointestinal issues.
Expect cold nights
Temperatures can drop sharply after sunset—carry an insulated sleeping bag rated for near-freezing conditions.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and grip for scree, wet meadow, and uneven shepherd trails.
Layered clothing system (base, insulating, shell)
Quick temperature swings and wind demand adaptable clothing.
Sleeping bag (rated to ~0°C)
Cold nights at high camps require reliable insulation.
spring
Water filter or purification tablets
Treat stream water to avoid illness on multi-day stretches.